Port Muskogee’s infrastructure improvements will position Muskogee for success over the next 50 years by significantly improving safety and operational efficiency, improving resiliency to withstand significant flood events, and supporting continuous growth with increased multi-modal throughput in the terminal area. Based on a Waterfront Infrastructure Assessment and Resiliency Study, improvements were prioritized for various infrastructure, including facilities, utilities, equipment, waterfront structures, railways, the electrical system, and storm-water system. You can find the complete master plan here: Port Muskogee Strategic Plan
- For example, due to their age and condition, the Port plans to replace the three terminal overhead cranes with one 40- and two 25-ton cranes. Updating this asset eases the difficulty of locating replacement parts, enhances safety, and offers more efficient, consistent operation of machinery. The additional crane tonnage will also improve efficiency and throughput.
- The Port also plans to repair and improve storm-water assets such as the closed pipe systems, drainage structures and stabilize the riverbank to minimize future erosion. Regrading around existing structures, clearing debris, and repairing damaged pavement will also increase resiliency and improve drainage away from the Port.
- Damage from the 2019 historic flood event caused the dockside rail to sink, forcing it to operate at a limited capacity and increasing safety concerns. The Port plans to replace the dockside rail and use track inspections to upgrade deficient track, ties, and ballast. Ensuring new rail construction meets or exceeds recommended safety measures will minimize maintenance challenges and reduce the risk of derailment.
- Constructed over 50 years ago, the existing main dock has retained structural damage, and its design capacity is outdated. Replacement of this dock is necessary to meet the current demand and handle contemporary deck loads and building code standards. Steel elements within the unacceptable range of the high waterline will also be protected to mitigate corrosion. To minimize operational disruptions, a new 80 ft. heavy-lift dock will be constructed with truck access to support main dock operations temporarily. At the same time, the existing wharf and dockside rail will be reconstructed, doubling the main dock’s capacity. In addition, this will help the Port realize the reduced truck and rail wait times and consequently improve air quality.
- A robust new 50,000 sq. ft. rail-served warehouse is planned to replace and serve the various operational needs of multiple facilities critically damaged by the 2019 flood event. In addition to storage, the new warehouse will include parking and an access road to the new heavy-lift dock.
- The Port plans to enhance the interior roads and pedestrian facilities (i.e., sidewalks, lighting, signage) to ensure the safety of and improve the quality of life for Port employees, pedestrians, truck drivers, and railroad operators while increasing operational efficiency. A formal paved roadway network will be established within the Oakley Terminal, and wayfinding signage will be provided within the Port to improve truck efficiency and reduce maintenance of routes not meant to serve heavy truck traffic.
- For additional safety, the Port is planning a Security Improvement Project consisting of the design, procurement, and installation of fencing, security cameras, and equipment around the Port. This work will also include a new secured entrance gate. These additions will significantly enhance the Port’s physical security, which can also aid in attracting and retaining tenants.
